Source: CPA Insider
Interviews by CPA Insider indicate CPAs and their clients are in substantial agreement about what clients want from their CPAs. But there are some surprises.
- CPAs in public practice often think most of their clients would be good sources of referrals. But CPAs in industry say their accountants may be too complacent about this.
- CPAs in public practice tend to believe decisions about selecting CPAs are made by the owner. But CPAs in industry know that they are the real decision-makers on this subject.
- While CPAs like to promise prospects they will receive good service, clients take good service for granted.
Clients want:
- CPAs knowledgeable in the client’s field.
- Advice on regulatory changes.
- Relevant communications—not general interest newsletters.
- Return phone calls.
Interviews with CPAs to get their thoughts on what clients want reveal that clients want:
- Help in growing the business. Clients take technical expertise for granted. They want CPAs who think strategically. Meetings at least quarterly are essential.
- Low fees and help in cleaning up messes.
- Tax advice. Clients don’t care about GAAP.
From CPA Insider, March 13, 2006 (www.cpa2biz.com). For the complete article, click on the following link: https://www.cpa2biz.com/News/Columnists/Telberg/ Why+Clients+Switch+CPA+Firms.htm. |